Vanuatu to host PACER-Plus Trade Adviser

Vanuatu has agreed to host the Office of the Chief Trade Adviser (OCTA) for THE Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations (PACER)-Plus negotiation.

Documents for the hosting agreement were signed Friday by Vanuatu Acting Prime Minister, Sato Kilman and Minister for Foreign Affairs Joe Natuman in Vanuatu capital of Port Vila, Vanuatu Radio reported.

The New Trade Adviser, Christopher Noonan signed the hosting agreement on behalf of the OCTA.

The signing formalizes the decision of the Pacific Island Forum for Vanuatu to host the Chief Trade Adviser's Office. It is seen as another development in Vanuatu's diplomatic relations with neighboring countries.

After the signing, Kilman said Vanuatu could not afford to lose such an opportunity that will further highlight Vanuatu's reputation in the international and regional arena.

Noonan said his initial task will be to focus on issues relating to the proposed PACER-Plus Agreement which will later be signed between Pacific island nations and Australia.

Source: Xinhua